D.Pharm 1st Year Syllabus 2026: Subjects, Exam Pattern, Practicals & Books

The D.Pharm 1st Year syllabus under the Education Regulations (ER) 2020 provides students with a strong foundation in pharmaceutical sciences, human anatomy, medicinal chemistry, pharmacognosy, and community healthcare. The curriculum combines theoretical learning with practical laboratory sessions, helping students develop the knowledge and skills required for professional pharmacy practice.

In addition to classroom studies, the course includes sessional and university examinations, practical assessments, compulsory assignments, and field visits as prescribed by the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI). 

Here, the given details cover the complete D.Pharm 1st Year syllabus, examination pattern, subject-wise overview, and important study resources to help students prepare effectively for academic success.

D.Pharm 1st Year Examination Pattern

The D.Pharm examination system includes both internal (sessional) and external (annual university) examinations.

Sessional (Internal) Theory Paper Pattern (40 Marks)

Practical Examination Pattern

D.Pharm 1st Year Subjects (ER 2020)

The first year of D.Pharm includes a total of ten subjects, comprising five theory subjects and five corresponding practical subjects.

1. Pharmaceutics (Code: ER20'.11T)

Pharmaceutics is a core subject in the D.Pharm 1st Year syllabus that includes both theory and practical components. It focuses on the formulation, manufacturing, packaging, storage, and dispensing of medicines. Students learn the fundamentals of dosage forms and pharmaceutical product development, making it one of the most important subjects in the course.

Key Topics & Practical Topics

Important Points

• Three assignments are compulsory during the academic year.

• Field visits are mandatory as per the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) guidelines.

• Pharmaceutics is one of the most important subjects for semester examinations and the proposed D.Pharm Exit Exam.

Recommended Book: Lachman and Lieberman's The Theory and Practice of Industrial Pharmacy.

2. Pharmaceutical Chemistry (Code: 2012 T)

Pharmaceutical Chemistry is a core theory and practical subject that focuses on the chemical principles involved in the formulation, identification, analysis, and quality control of drugs. It helps students understand drug composition, pharmaceutical calculations, analytical methods, and the chemistry of medicinal compounds.

Key Topics & Practical Topics

Important Points

• Three assignments are compulsory during the academic year.

• Limit Tests and Assay methods are among the most important practical topics for examinations.

• A strong understanding of pharmaceutical calculations and analytical chemistry is essential for scoring well in both theory and practical exams.

3. Pharmacognosy

Pharmacognosy is a theory and practical subject that deals with the study of medicinal plants, herbal drugs, and natural products. It helps students identify plant-based medicines, understand their biological sources, and evaluate their medicinal properties. The subject also introduces the scientific classification and authentication of crude drugs.

Key Topics & Practical Topics

Important Points

• Three assignments are compulsory during the academic year.

• A Medical Garden visit is mandatory as per Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) guidelines.

• Learning the biological names, identification, and uses of medicinal plants is important for both theory and practical examinations.

Recommended Book: Kokate's Pharmacognosy.

4. Human Anatomy and Physiology (HAP)

Human Anatomy and Physiology (HAP) is a theory and practical subject that provides a detailed understanding of the structure (Anatomy) and functions (Physiology) of the human body. It helps students learn about different body systems, their organization, and their role in maintaining normal physiological functions.

Key Topics & Practical Topics

Important Points

• The subject covers approximately 15 major chapters related to human body systems.

• Practical sessions are an essential part of HAP and help students understand anatomical structures and physiological processes.

• A strong understanding of HAP is important for advanced pharmacy subjects like Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy.

5. Social Pharmacy

Social Pharmacy is a theory and practical subject that focuses on the role of pharmacy professionals in community healthcare, disease prevention, and public health awareness. It helps students understand healthcare programs, preventive measures, nutrition, common diseases, and the importance of pharmacists in improving public health outcomes.

Key Topics & Practical Topics

Important Points

• Three assignments are compulsory during the academic year.

• Compulsory field visits are included as per the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) guidelines.

• The subject develops awareness about community pharmacy practices and public healthcare systems.

• Students should refer to official healthcare program resources for updated information.